title: Hazards of gloves in dentistry.
abstract: Concerns about AIDS, hepatitis and infection control have increased the use of gloves in medical and dental practice. Though generally assumed to be protective, gloves pose many hazards to the practitioner and patient. This is especially significant in dentistry where a large assortment of materials and manipulative techniques are used as part of treatment. Gloves, with relatively large porosities, are poor barriers to viruses. They can promote bacterial growth, skin lesions, toxic and allergic reactions in patient and staff. Gloves are costly, time consuming to use, reduce sensitivity and dexterity. Gloves do not protect the wearer from penetrating injuries, the leading source of HIV and HBV infections in health care workers. The use of gloves is helpful only in those cases where their advantages outweigh liabilities. Governmental regulations, requiring universal glove-wear compliance, may not be in the best public or professional interest.
authors.forename: E J
authors.initials: EJ
authors.lastname: Neiburger
mesh_terms: D003729:Dental Care; D005932:Gloves, Surgical; D006801:Humans; D012307:Risk Factors